Diaspora Voting Rights: Supreme Court Complaint to Revive Debate

Mauritians living abroad are calling for their rightful place in the democratic process. Gathered under the banner of the Mouvement Solidarité Mauricienne (MSM) in Paris, they are urging the government to grant them the right to vote in general elections. In this regard, a constitutional complaint will soon be filed with the Supreme Court.

Kaviraj Bokhoree, legal representative for the Mouvement Solidarité Mauricienne, advocating for the integration of the diaspora into the national electoral system.

“We ask the government to seriously consider this legitimate request. It is time to include Mauritians living abroad through a dedicated electoral constituency,” he suggested during a press conference held in Port-Louis on Wednesday morning.

This initiative, Bokhoree emphasized, reignites a long-ignored debate about recognizing the economic and social role of the diaspora in the country’s development, while allowing them to fully participate in the political life of Mauritius.

“The Mauritian state would benefit from acknowledging the voting rights of the diaspora in the upcoming general elections,” he stated.

Bokhoree has vowed to present this demand to the new government in the coming days.

“A significant number of Mauritians living abroad actively contribute to the local economy and maintain strong ties with their homeland.

However, they are unable to vote without being physically present in Mauritius.

Hence, it is essential for Mauritians residing overseas to be included in the democratic process,” he explained.

To further this integration, Bokhoree proposed the establishment of a Ministry of Mauritian Affairs and Diaspora, highlighting the importance of including the diaspora in the national interest.

Navin Ramgoolam, leader of the Labour Party, was questioned by Radio 230 in Paris about diaspora voting a few weeks before the general elections.

He remarked, “In the past, the diaspora was not allowed to vote for a reason. When they could vote at embassies, there were concerns about the integrity of their votes.

Today, we see Bangladeshis voting, but Mauritians cannot. We aim to change this, but it’s crucial to ensure that those who have lived abroad for 50 years possess a connection to Mauritius. Then, I will express my support.”

Mario Peertum, president of the movement, shared that the request for the right to vote has been made since 1996 to the government of that time.

“For nearly 30 years, I have been advocating for Mauritians living abroad to exercise their voting rights. This is a demand I hope will finally be realized with the support of Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam,” he expressed with determination.

He emphasized that voting rights should not merely be seen as a symbolic recognition, but as a matter of justice for those who, despite living far from the island, actively contribute to its development.

“I would be thrilled if the diaspora finally receives this fundamental right,” he concluded, hopeful that this prolonged struggle may soon reach a favorable outcome.

Source: Defi Media